The sugar white sand beaches of the Emerald Coast provide the perfect background for your family portrait. Here are some tips to help you capture that perfect picture. Find a focal point. Use the natural landscape, like waves and shells, or an artificial structure, like a lifeguard chair, pier, pail and shovel, or sandcastle to provide some perspective in your shot.  Be sure to check out some of the works created by the area’s very talented sandcastle designers. Timing is everything. Sunrise and sunset provide the most flattering light for your photos. You limit glare and optimize the color of the sky, the sand, and the water. A less than perfect beach day makes a great day for a photo session. Experiment. Use your beach photo session as an opportunity to play around with your fancy equipment. Take advantage of a wide-angle lens for a panoramic view, test out your light meter to manipulate color and shadow, and use your fast action setting to snap the kids before, during, and after they run through the surf. Manage your expectations.  You may never get everyone smiling at the same time, so remember that you are trying to capture a particular moment in time. Almost all beach photo collections include running into the water, jumping waves, or collecting shells and other objects along the coastline. Hire a professional. The Emerald Coast has a ton of talented and patient photographers who specialize in capturing your family at your best.Â